Walking and other daily functions performed on your feet can be challenging and painful when you have heel pain. Heel pain can also keep you from participating in favorite activities, such as running or working out. Heel pain can develop for different reasons. Depending on the cause or type, pain and discomfort are often felt in either the back or bottom of the heel. Fortunately, there are various treatments for heel pain. At the Ankle & Foot Center of Fox Valley, Dr. Nancy Jagodzinski is your podiatrist for treatment of heel pain in Naperville, IL.

Types of Heel Pain

Heel pain often develops when the foot experiences repeated stress on a regular basis. Stress can come from daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods. The feet also undergo stress during such activities as jogging, high-impact workouts, and participation in certain types of sports. The impact of the heels touching down when performing any of these activities can strain the heels over time and lead to pain.

There are different types of heel pain, but the two most common types are plantar fasciitis and achilles tendonosis, also known as tendonitis. Pain is felt at the bottom of the heel with plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs sometimes develop with this condition, as well. Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form under the heel bone and cause additional pain. With achilles tendonosis, pain is felt at the back of the heel near the achilles tendon. A podiatrist can treat both types of heel pain in Naperville.

Treatment for Heel Pain

Several different treatments are available for alleviating the pain and discomfort of heel pain. The most effective treatment option will depend on the type of heel pain you are experiencing. In some cases, a combination of treatments might be best. Treatments for heel pain include:

• Foot surgery
• Physical therapy
• Therapeutic stretches
• Prescription medications (such as corticosteroids)
• Orthotic foot supports
• Shoe inserts
• Supportive footwear
• Applying ice to the heel area
• Cortisone Injections

If you are experiencing chronic heel pain, there are treatments that can help. For treatment of heel pain in Naperville, IL, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jagodzinski by calling the Ankle & Foot Center of Fox Valley at (630) 778-7670.